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The original was posted on /r/homeassistant by /u/TheBoyardeeBandit on 2026-07-22 17:49:22+00:00.
I'm looking to start playing with Matter but am rapidly getting more confused as I read more.
Here is what I'm unclear on:
- Do I need a Matter hub or not? I have a dedicated HA server. I thought I read that I need a hub to connect devices to, and then HA looks at the hub to discover devices. I was reading a different thread though that was saying I could just get a Matter antenna?
- Do I need a thread router? I think I read that this is to extend device control into other assistant ecosystems, such as Apple Home, Google Home, etc..
- I'm a bit confused about Matter vs zigbee/zwave. I understand they are different languages, but can zigbee or zwave devices connect and talk to the matter hub?
- I'm a bit unclear where to begin hardware and associated integration wise. For example, if I get a Tapo device, do I set it up in Tapo, and then in Matter? Just Matter? Other?
Any pointers or recommended kindergarten level guides would be greatly appreciated